Do critically ill adults requiring vasopressor support benefit from a higher target mean arterial pressure?
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Why is this study important?
Blood pressure remains an imperfect surrogate marker for shock, a condition in which tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery and usage at the mitochondrial level are the most vital, but unmeasurable parameters. The 2013 Surviving Sepsis Campaign Guidelines recommend an initial mean arterial pressure (MAP) of 65 mmHg (strong recommendation) but higher MAP targets for patients with chronic hypertension (weak recommendation).[1] This study reinforces the importance of individualization of endpoints.
Which, if any, threats to validity are most likely to have an impact on the results and how?
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